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The People vs FINAL FANTASY IV: The Complete Collection

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Square Enix's Takashi Tokita, development supervisor of FINAL FANTASY IV: The Complete Collection, answers questions from PlayStation fans about the game.

As game designer for the original FINAL FANTASY IV development team, Takashi Tokita went on to become the executive producer for The After Years. Here, he talks exclusively to PlayStation.com about this exciting new collection, exclusive to PSP.

Twenty years after its original release, what inspired you and your team to remake this game? (Plambey)

We decided to do this because it's the 20 anniversary of FINAL FANTASY IV. We have also received requests from many fans who wanted to play a packaged version of The After Years.

What kind of planning goes into creating the music for FINAL FANTASY games? (AFCJoel89)

It is vital to keep a good balance between background music, which adds depth to the battle scenes, and the cinematic music which expresses emotions and themes for in-game characters.

How many games are you still planning to make for this wonderful series? (rwbk)

It is difficult to say as I am not the only FINAL FANTASY creator. I believe that the series should go on for as long as we have fans who want to play FINAL FANTASY.

What is the secret to coming up with new storylines? (shapperd-sg2030)

There are no specific methods as such but the stories are somewhere in me. In order to create storylines, I look back on my entire life and go through the games I have been impressed by and personal experiences that have contributed to my identity. What matters to me the most are impact and expectation.

What is the most complicated step in game development? (Maskdemort)

It's probably the period before creating the first prototype. Even if we have scenarios and specification documents, the team members interpret them individually and visualise different pictures. They can share the same ideas only when a prototype is created. As soon as they reach this stage, the production starts to gain momentum.

What are the new features introduced into FINAL FANTASY IV: The Complete Collection? (Youti44)

FINAL FANTASY IV is combined in the same package as its sequel, The After Years, and Interlude, an episode that links the two. Also added are new mechanics such as auto-battle which streamlines your gameplay.

Where does your inspiration come from to create such a passionate saga? (Koko_Gadget)

I think it boils down to how each character plays a role in the story. What is important about the game scenario is how deeply the player can identify with the characters and it is all down to individual situations and supporting characters. I used to be involved with theatrical productions and have been strongly influenced by the experience. I think the characters must lift the spirit of the player in the story.

If you could describe FINAL FANTASY IV in just a few words, what would they be? (CMJE96)

I would say it's the very first role-playing game that is utterly dramatic and story-driven.